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Kyle Mayers’ 73 went in vain for West Indies, with Rohit Sharma’s back injury a matter of concern for the visitors

Sidharth Monga02-Aug-20223:18

Hardik Pandya – ‘When I bowl it gives a lot of balance to the side’

Suryakumar Yadav put on a workshop on how to hit hard lengths after Hardik Pandya and R Ashwin helped India keep West Indies down to 164 in their 20 overs. Riding on Suryakumar’s 76 off 44 balls, India got to their target and a 2-1 lead in the five-match series with an over to spare.The only matter of concern for India was the fitness of their captain Rohit Sharma, who retired hurt with a suspected back spasm when batting.Put in on a bouncy track that was hosting its second match in two days, West Indies got off to a quick start in the powerplay, but Pandya and Ashwin dragged them back with their changes of pace. Between them, they conceded just 45 in eight overs.While Kyle Mayers scored a 50-ball 73, run-a-ball 20s from Brandon King and Nicholas Pooran hurt West Indies’ momentum. Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell helped them get 80 off the last seven but it wasn’t enough to trouble Suryakumar.Right from the first ball he faced, Suryakumar looked in imperious touch, squeezing out a near-yorker for four through cover. He followed it with scarcely believable shots to perfectly acceptable balls bowled on hard lengths.Five of his 12 boundaries came behind square on the off side, and one behind square on the leg side, but his best shot was an aerial inside-out drive to a short-of-a-length ball on middle stump, getting a six over wide long-off. It was but one of an exhibition put on by Suryakumar, who at one point threatened to score a century in a small chase.By the time he was done, India needed just 30 off 33 balls.Mayers signals intent
India snuck in a quiet over from Deepak Hooda with the new ball, but Mayers got stuck into any pace on offer, especially that of Avesh Khan. If he went over the leg side against Avesh, he made room to slice open the covers when Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled. Arshdeep Singh did well in the final powerplay over, but Mayers and King punished two slight errors of length from Ashwin in the seventh over to make it 56 for 0.1:02

Kyle Mayers – ‘India assessed the conditions better than us’

Pandya, Ashwin choke the middle overs
Pandya, who had been pulled for a six in his first over, got a change of ends, which meant Mayers was hitting into a stiff wind if he pulled. Extra bounce, hard lengths and changes of pace followed in the next three overs, which went for just 11 runs, and also brought the wicket of King, who played on when slogging at Pandya.Ashwin had two left-hand batters in sight, and he stifled them with his guile and variations on a pitch with little turn. Mayers and Pooran managed to hit a four and a six in his remaining three overs, but had to take big risks. By the time the duo was done, West Indies had reached just 84 in 13 overs.Honours even in final exchanges
West Indies managed to successfully target Avesh in the final exchanges, but Arshdeep and Bhuvneshwar kept pulling them back, denying them the finishing kick they badly needed after that middle-overs slowdown. Mayers and Rovman Powell played some incredible shots to get them the 80 runs they did in these seven overs, but they were about to pale in comparison.The Suryakumar show
The first ball Suryakumar – opening for the third time this series – faced was a low full-toss with not much room, but he squeezed it out for a four through the covers. He was just warming up those whippy wrists of his. In the fourth over, he played a mix of a ramp and a drive to send Azlarri Joseph for a six over third.India took 56 off the powerplay, which is when West Indies would have hoped to have brought on a slowdown like the one they experienced.However, Suryakumar took Jason Holder on in the eighth over, and then punished Joseph for no fault of his in the tenth. The drive off a short-of-a-length delivery for six over wide long-off was followed by a ramp from around leg stump, with Suryakumar almost on his back as he arched back to make room. It was the halfway mark, and India needed just another 69.Before he signed off, Suryakumar played another outrageous shot, a sweep off left-arm seamer Dominic Drakes from wide outside off and over short fine. When he tried a repeat, Suryakumar fell, leaving India just 30 to get in 33 balls, which they did comfortably thanks to Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 33 off 26 deliveries.

Ex-Argentina and Manchester United star Carlos Tevez has vowed to bring Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo together for his farewell game.

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Tevez planning a blockbuster farewellMessi & Ronaldo could unite to bid him goodbye Several ex-Man Utd & Juve stars to feature as wellFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?

The former Argentina international has revealed his ambition to bring together two of football’s greatest icons – Messi and Ronaldo – for his proposed farewell match at La Bombonera, a tribute to his extraordinary playing career that spanned nearly two decades.

With Messi, Tevez shared a decade-long partnership on the Argentina national team. Their first major tournament together was the 2006 World Cup in Germany, and they went on to compete at the 2010 tournament in South Africa, as well as three Copa America editions – in 2007, 2011, and 2015.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE

His connection with Ronaldo came during a memorable spell at Manchester United between 2007 and 2009. Alongside Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, Tevez helped form a fearsome attacking trio. Together, they brought immense success to Old Trafford, including back-to-back Premier League titles, the 2008 Champions League crown, and a FIFA Club World Cup triumph.

WHAT TEVEZ SAID

In an interview with Tevez said of his dream lineup for his farewell match: “Leo Messi, Cristiano… we’re going to bring them. I’ll go get them myself. I have them saved in my WhatsApp.”

Tevez also listed a number of other high-profile players he hopes to reunite with for the occasion. From his United days, he mentioned Rooney, Edwin van der Sar, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, and Patrice Evra. On the Italian side, he wants Juventus legends Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci, and Gianluigi Buffon to take part.

"(Edwin) Van der Sar on one side and (Gianluigi) Buffon on the other,” he said, referring to the goalkeepers. “At center back, we’ll probably have Rio Ferdinand, (Nemanja) Vidic… we’ll bring in (Giorgio) Chiellini, (Leonardo) Bonucci. Patrice Evra, my brother, he has to be there. Midfielders… (Andrea) Pirlo, Paul Scholes, Roman (Riquelme) will definitely be there. Rooney."

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DID YOU KNOW?

Despite never mastering English during his time in England, Tevez recalled fond memories of his time at Old Trafford. In particular, he spoke warmly about the bond he shared with Ji-Sung Park and Evra, despite all three coming from vastly different backgrounds.

“Man, the laughs I had at United,” the Argentine reminisced. “There was a Korean guy, Ji-Sung Park, (Patrice) Evra, French, and me—I didn’t understand a word of English. The Korean kind of understood, and Patrice spoke all three languages. The three of us had so many laughs… and everyone else would look at us like, ‘How do those three even understand each other?’ because they’d see us talking.”

Are Manchester City back?

On Sunday, the Sky Blues smashed Ipswich Town 6-0 at Portman Road; Phil Foden bagging a brace, while Mateo Kovačić, Jérémy Doku, Erling Haaland and James McAtee were all also on target in Suffolk.

This is Man City’s joint-most emphatic top-flight away victory of all-time, previously hammering Watford 6-0 in September 2017, a scoreline that sees them move up to fourth on goal difference, above Newcastle, unbeaten in six across all competitions ahead of Wednesday’s crucial Champions League trip to Paris Saint-Germain.

Off the field too, the Citizens continue to be busier than any other club this January window, set to complete the signings of Vitor Reis, Abdukodir Khusanov and Omar Marmoush this week, costing a combined £120m.

But their spending is not done yet, with Pep Guardiola looking to bolster his midfield options too.

Manchester City looking to re-sign midfielder

According to a report by David Ornstein of the Athletic, Manchester City are “considering” re-signing Douglas Luiz on loan for the remainder of the season, while Juventus are only willing to sanction such a deal if an “obligation to buy” is included.

Luiz only joined la Vecchia Signora from Aston Villa as recently as last summer for a reported £42.5m, with Enzo Barrenechea and Samuel Iling-Junior moving in the opposite direction to Villa for a reported £18m, as the Villans aimed to avoid a potential PSR breach.

However, as described by Adam Digby of Forbes, Luiz’s time at Juventus has gone disastrously, with the front page of Gazzetta dello Sport labelling him ‘a flop’ as early as October.

This came after the most high-profile of his missteps, giving away a penalty for handball mere seconds after being introduced as a substitute against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, spared further scrutiny because ten-man Juve scored twice late on to snatch victory in Saxony.

In total, Luiz has seen just 474 minutes of action in a Bianconeri shirt, that’s little over 18% of their total minutes, coming on for the final 15 minutes against both Atalanta and AC Milan this week, but Thiago Motta clearly does not view him as a key figure.

Both his former club Aston Villa as well as Nottingham Forest have reportedly shown an interest in securing Luiz’s services, but surely Man City would be at the front of the queue if he were to return to the Premier League.

How Douglas Luiz would improve Manchester City

The Brazilian actually spent two seasons on Man City’s books, signing from Vasco da Gama for a reported £10m in 2017, but he never made an appearance for the Sky Blues, spending two seasons on loan at Girona, making 46 appearances for another club owned by City Football Group, before being sold to Aston Villa in 2019 for £15m.

During his time at Villa, Content Strategy Consultant Adam Gilks described Luiz as “one of the best sixes in the Premier League”, impressed by his “great vision and… fantastic work rate”.

This sale included a 20% sell on clause, which proved to be a nice little earner for the Citizens last summer, while Man City also had a buy-back clause that Jake Bayliss of the Manchester Evening News believes “expired in 2021”, emphasising that the four-in-a-row Premier League champions have long thought Luiz was capable of playing for their first team one day. However, that could well be set to change in 2025.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

As has been widely documented, Manchester City’s downturn in form this season has primarily been due to Rodri’s ACL injury suffered against Arsenal in September, with Guardiola describing the reigning Ballon d’Or winner as “irreplaceable”.

İlkay Gündoğan and Kovačić are doing their best to fill Rodri’s enormous void, the Croatian starting 12 of the 17 Premier League matches since the Spaniard’s injury, including each of the last six, but the duo clearly need help, so let’s see how Luiz and Kovačić compare.

Appearances

74

80

Minutes

4,854

5,194

Goals

9

8

Assists

10

2

Attempted passes

3,156

3,362

Pass completion %

85.9%

93.5%

Touches

3,527

3,737

Tackles

86

90

% of dribblers tackled

50.6%

50.6%

Interceptions

30

44

Blocks

41

44

Clearances

32

26

Ball recoveries

246

174

% of aerial duals won

58.5%

57.1%

As the table shows, Luiz is much more of a goal threat than Kovačić, albeit that isn’t what Man City are looking for from a midfield addition this month.

More pertinently, Luiz and Kovačić are comparable when it comes to passes, pass accuracy and all the out-of-possession metrics, tackles, interceptions and blocks, with the Brazilian ranking higher for ball recoveries as well as aerial duals won.

This is impressive considering Villa finished 21 points below Man City last season, while Luiz has seen very little action since swapping Birmingham for Turin, with these numbers suggesting he’d slot into the Sky Blues’ team seamlessly, eight years after first joining the club.

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ByRoss Kilvington Jan 18, 2025

“We have already got a lot of answers in the last eight to ten months, and this [experimentation] will continue,” says the captain

Shashank Kishore27-Aug-202222:42

Virat Kohli on Ind vs Pak: ‘Atmosphere on the outside very different to any other game’

India will look to experiment, mix and match combinations, and continue to push boundaries in their build-up to the T20 World Cup later this year. They will also look to give players a fair run of games, even if they are not a certainty in the first XI. This was among the biggest takeaways from Rohit Sharma’s pre-match press conference ahead of the team’s Asia Cup opener against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday.”Look, we’ve decided we will try things,” Rohit said. “Some things may work, some things may not work, but there is no harm in trying. Only if you try things, will you get answers.”When there is an opportunity to try different combinations, we will try. Along the way, if we make mistakes or face difficulties, we’re okay with that. We have spoken about it as a group, and there is nothing to fear.Related

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“We will keep trying to seek new answers. It can be anywhere, be it batting or bowling. We have already got a lot of answers in the last eight to ten months, and this [experimentation] will continue. When the World Cup comes around, we will see what to do and what not to do.”As soon as he finished training on Friday, Rohit made a quick dash to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium to take a look at the surface and check if there was dew. This provided a peek into the level of detailing India are going into, because they are seemingly mindful of what happened at the last year’s T20 World Cup, where the toss had a massive impact on the result. Of the last ten T20I in Dubai, nine have been won by the chasing team.”Yesterday [Friday], we spoke to the curator and told him that the toss should not be a factor, we want to see quality cricket in both innings,” Rohit said. “He [said] he will do everything he can to make sure the best cricket is displayed for all of us. We’ve heard there wasn’t any dew yesterday. Luckily, we’re playing tomorrow [Sunday] and have a chance to see the game today and see what the conditions will be like.”To assess conditions, we will be in constant touch with the groundsmen to see if there will be dew. Even if there is, we have played enough here to understand what we need to do as a team or as individuals. We should be prepared to counter what is in front of us.”5:06

Rohit ‘can see the freshness in Virat after his break’

Rohit was asked about the rivalry between India and Pakistan, and the social media chatter around it. He was also repeatedly asked about last year’s World Cup game against Pakistan; India’s ten-wicket loss was their first to Pakistan in all World Cups. Rohit said while there were discussions on learning from that defeat, it would have no bearing on Sunday’s game.”The mood is buzzing,” he said. “This is a fresh tournament, a new start. We talk about starting fresh and not thinking of what happened in the past. That’s how teams move forward. It will be challenging to play Pakistan, without a doubt. What is important is what we are thinking and what we want to achieve. We will focus on that rather than thinking about the opposition. We are here with a purpose, and we want to achieve something from this tournament. Everyone is excited to be here, they want to start the tournament on a high.”One of the key conversations in the India camp in recent times has been around mental health, especially in the wake of Virat Kohli’s revelation about how he felt “mentally weak” recently. Kohli has featured in just four T20Is for India this year, having taken breaks at different times. He told that he didn’t touch the bat for a month before coming to Dubai. Rohit, too, talked about the need to normalise the talk around mental health.”We do talk about these kinds of things a lot of late,” Rohit said. “Since Covid-19 struck, it has been difficult for a lot of players, not just Virat. A lot of players have had hard times mentally. Staying in bubbles and not being able to go outside hotels, some of those guys find it difficult, and there’s nothing wrong with it. How you led your life until then was completely different on long tours. With quarantines and all of that, it wasn’t easy.”Every player has a way to respond to it, there isn’t anything wrong if a player has his views on that. There is constant talk in our group about how the players are mentally, what they think of the game, and how we can keep them fresh. That freshness is important, especially when you are playing high-profile games. Mentally you should be fresh, otherwise you won’t be able to compete, so mental health is very important.”Rohit then proceeded to share his observations of Kohli at training and how he seems “fresher than before”. Sunday will be Kohli’s 100th T20I. He will be only the second player after Ross Taylor to play that many matches in each format.”From what I saw, I felt [he is] very good, he is looking in good touch and working hard on his batting,” Rohit said. “I didn’t feel he is thinking of too many things. He is just like how we saw him earlier. He hasn’t made extraordinary changes, but the freshness is there to be seen, given he is coming back after a month. He is in good touch. We focus as a team to give the boys chances to prepare, because preparation is key. We play the way we prepare. The way we have prepared, we have covered all bases.”

As Jhon Duran’s big-money move to Saudi Arabia edges closer and closer to confirmation, Aston Villa are now reportedly attempting a swift deal to sign an instant replacement for the forward.

Aston Villa transfer news

With just four days remaining until the January transfer window slams shut, Duran’s reported €77m (£64m) move to Al-Nassr has seemingly blown the market wide open in the dying embers. The Villans, with money to spend, could yet welcome a number of reinforcements for Unai Emery’s side in pursuit of securing back-to-back top four finishes in the Premier League.

Just who those reinforcements are is the remaining question. Names such as Axel Disasi and Joao Felix have both been mentioned in recent days as the Villans potentially complete a double Chelsea swoop. Meanwhile, Baris Alper Yilmaz has also threatened to steal the headlines to hand Emery a replacement for the departing Duran.

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He desperately needs a move…

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There’s cases for all three options too. Disasi and Felix would instantly end Emery’s search for a central defender following Diego Carlos’ departure and add further creativity to his squad after Emiliano Buendia completed a loan exit to Bayer Leverkusen. But before the latter, in particular, those in the Midlands could yet welcome a man who is a man in demand in the Premier League.

According to Fabrice Hawkins and Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa have now made contact in the race to sign Mathys Tel from Bayer Munich before Monday’s deadline. The young forward reportedly wants to leave Bayern Munich and has attracted a race of as many as seven clubs in pursuit of his signature.

A battle which also reportedly involves fellow Premier League sides Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea, Aston Villa could yet swoop in and complete what would be quite the January hijack, but they will have to act fast after reports in France suggested a £50m deal has been agreed and Tel is ready to join Spurs.

"Deadly" Tel is a better option than Felix

If asked to pick between Felix and Tel, then Aston Villa should pick the latter every time. As talented as Felix is, he is yet to prove his worth on the big stage whether it’s with Atletico Madrid, Barcelona or now Chelsea. Tel, meanwhile, is just 19 years old and full of the potential that Bayern Munich are currently standing in the way of.

Having started just twice in the Bundesliga all season, the young forward desperately needs a January move and the chance to play week in, week out. And although Watins is the undisputed starter at Aston Villa, Emery’s habit of rotation when Duran was available suggests that there’s certainly room for a rising star in his ranks.

Described as a “deadly finisher” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Tel looks destined to leave Bayern Munich with a number of Premier League sides now queuing up for his signature before Monday’s deadline.

The Real Madrid-bound right-back came off the bench to score the winning goal at the King Power Stadium on Sunday

Liverpool moved within three points of the Premier League title thanks to Trent Alexander-Arnold's fine finish, as the Reds' 1-0 win at the King Power Stadium also relegated hosts Leicester City. The right-back has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer, and if he is to depart, he has left behind an ideal parting gift.

Within two minutes, we had a glimpse of things to come, as Mohamed Salah found space in the box, beating the offside trap, only for his effort hit both posts before bouncing clear. At the other end, before 10 minutes had elapsed, Leicester hit the post themselves thanks to a fine effort from Wilfred Ndidi.

Prior to half-time, Ibrahima Konate went close with a header from a corner, only an acrobatic Ndidi clearance to keep Leicester level, before Salah scooped an effort over the bar at the back post.

After the hour, Leicester had the ball in the net thanks to Conor Coady's header, but it was ruled out after Patson Daka was adjudged to have fouled Alisson Becker in the build-up.

And with 15 minutes left, a scramble in the box saw two efforts come back off the woodwork, before the ball dropped to substitute Alexander-Arnold, who rifled a left-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, and ripped his shirt off as he celebrated wildly in front of the Reds fans he may soon leave behind.

GOAL rates Liverpool's players from the King Power Stadium…

AFPGoalkeeper & Defence

Alisson Becker (6/10):

Didn't have all that much to do, but when he was called upon, he performed well.

Conor Bradley (7/10):

Some excellent forward runs and fine deliveries. Great battle down his flank with the tricky Mavididi and was booked for a late challenge on the winger. Subbed as a result.

Ibrahima Konate (6/10):

A real aerial threat and nearly scored. A couple of uncoordinated moments, but a strong performance against Vardy.

Virgil van Dijk (7/10):

Imperious in the air and very rarely gave the ball away. He didn't look to have a bead of sweat on him.

Kostas Tsimikas (7/10):

Some teasing deliveries as he continually pushed forward. A fine deputy for Robertson, such is his energy and drive.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMidfield

Ryan Gravenberch (7/10):

Understated but busy, keeping Liverpool ticking with his simple passing. Some solid tackles too, breaking up the play.

Dominik Szoboszlai (6/10):

Resorted to a couple of long-range efforts. Didn't dominate the midfield but was tidy throughout.

Alexis Mac Allister (8/10):

Dictated from deep and got physical when necessary. Mac Allister really is becoming a complete midfielder, and he is so important to this team.

AFPAttack

Mohamed Salah (5/10):

So unlucky to hit both posts within two minutes. Kept taking shots at goal, but it just wouldn't drop for him. On another day he has a hat-trick, but here, he was bailed out by Alexander-Arnold.

Luis Diaz (7/10):

Has such quick feet, Leicester could barely get close. Diligent defensively and electric going forward, this was a fine display.

Cody Gakpo (5/10):

Buzzed around but couldn't turn his productivity into anything tangible. Was subbed for Jota on the hour.

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Diogo Jota (6/10):

Came on for Gakpo. Involved throughout his time on the pitch, but couldn't hit the back of the net.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (8/10):

Replaced Bradley after his booking. Scored the winner, rifling an effort through a throng of bodies. A passionate celebration; his goal takes the Reds one step closer.

Harvey Elliott (6/10):

On for Szoboszlai. Kept taking Liverpool up the pitch with his carrying ability.

Curtis Jones (N/A):

An injury-time sub.

Arne Slot (7/10):

His changes won the game, but this was an underwhelming display; Leicester are now down, but the Reds had to work mightily hard to get over the line. Still, they are three points away from glory.

Cheteshwar Pujara to turn out for Saurashtra in the fixture in Rajkot from October 1-5

Shashank Kishore27-Sep-2022After a century on debut in both the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy, Delhi batter Yash Dhull will have an opportunity to enhance his red-ball credentials at the Irani Cup. He has been selected as part of a strong 15-member Rest of India squad, led by Hanuma Vihari, for one-off fixture against Saurashtra in Rajkot from October 1-5.Dhull, India’s 2022 Under-19 World Cup winning captain, has already racked up 770 runs in nine first-class innings, with four centuries, including a best of 200 not out. He will pitch for a berth in a strong middle order, consisting of Vihari, the in-form Sarfaraz Khan and KS Bharat, the first-choice wicketkeeper.The Rest of India squad also consists of four openers – Mayank Agarwal, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyank Panchal. Among them, Jaiswal, Easwaran and Panchal have been in excellent nick in red-ball cricket recently.Jaiswal will be heading into the game fresh off a career-best 265 for West Zone in the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone last week. Like Dhull, Jaiswal has also had a roaring start to his first-class career. In fact he became the joint-fastest Indian to 1000 runs in the format, getting there in only 13 innings at an average of 84.58, with five hundreds and a half-century.Easwaran and Panchal, meanwhile, were among the runs for India A during their 1-0 home series win over New Zealand A. Both batters have been India A regulars for the past three years and have been on the fringes of the national team.Easwaran, who captains Bengal in first-class cricket, was part of the Test squad in England last year as a reserve opener, alongside Agarwal, who will be itching to hit top form after slipping under the radar following a string of low scores leading to his omission from the fifth Test against England earlier this year. He showed a semblance of good form in the Duleep Trophy, with scores of 49 and 64 in the semi-final against North Zone.The pace attack, meanwhile, is raw. All of five first-class matches old, tearaway quick Umran Malik has continued to receive the backing of the selectors despite an underwhelming start to his red-ball career; he’s picked up all of eight wickets so far. He will be part of a four-man pace attack, alongside Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Sen and Arzan Nagwaswalla. Jayant Yadav and Saurabh Kumar are the two frontline spinners.Among the bowlers, Mukesh, Bengal’s pace spearhead, has been the most impressive in recent times. Last month, he picked up his fourth first-class five-for against New Zealand A in Bengaluru. Nagwaswalla, meanwhile, has been a regular feature in the Indian team as a net bowler over the past two seasons.The match is belatedly being held after being postponed due to Covid-19. Played between the Ranji champions and Rest of India, the match was to be a follow-up to Saurashtra’s maiden Ranji Trophy win in March 2020 but was postponed indefinitely owing to a national lockdown in the week following their win.The Rest of India squad will be coached by Sitanshu Kotak, the former Saurashtra captain, who is currently part of VVS Laxman’s larger coaching group at the National Cricket Academy. Kotak, who was with the senior Indian team as assistant coach on their tour of Ireland earlier this summer, has just finished a stint with India A, who he coached to a 3-0 sweep in the white-ball leg of the New Zealand series at home.Pujara named in Saurashtra squad
Saurashtra, meanwhile, have named Cheteshwar Pujara in their squad, which has ten of the 15 members who were part of their maiden Ranji title win in March 2020.The squad, led by Jaydev Unadkat, includes established names such as Sheldon Jackson, Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, Chirag Jani and Chetan Sakariya. The team will be without Avi Barot, who starred in that campaign. Barot died of cardiac arrest last October. They will be coached by former player Niraj Odedra, who was assistant to Karsan Ghavri during that memorable 2019-2020 season.Rest of India squad: Hanuma Vihari (capt), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Yash Dhull, Sarfaraz Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KS Bharat (wk), Upendra Yadav (wk), Jayant Yadav, Saurabh Kumar, R Sai Kishore, Mukesh Kumar, Umran Malik, Kuldeep Sen, Arzan NagwaswallaSaurashtra squad: Jaydev Unadkat (capt), Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheldon Jackson, Prerak Mankad, Arpit Vasavada, Chirag Jani, Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, Chetan Sakariya, Parth Bhut, Snell Patel (wk), Harvik Desai, Vishvaraj Jadeja, Kamlesh Makvana, Kushang Patel, Kishan Parmar

The Premier League is filled with global superstars like Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah and Cole Palmer.

While these players may grab the headlines more often than not, every squad also has players who quietly go about their business without the recognition they deserve.

Whether they’re unsung leaders, midfielders seamlessly pulling the strings or stalwart defenders, these underrated players play a crucial role in their teams’ success.

Here, we’ve highlighted the player from each 2024/25 Premier League club we think is too often overlooked.

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ByStephan Georgiou 5 days ago Arsenal Jurrien Timber

He had a rocky start to his Arsenal career because of injury, but since returning to fitness, Jurrien Timber has been a key figure for the Gunners – in large part because of his versatility.

Whether asked to play at his preferred position of centre-back, at left-back or at right-back, the Dutchman always puts in a solid shift and rarely puts a foot wrong.

William Saliba and Gabriel may get most of the plaudits for Arsenal in defence, but without Timber, Mikel Arteta’s side could have really struggled this season.

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ByRoss Kilvington Nov 5, 2024 Aston Villa John McGinn

John McGinn embodies everything that makes Aston Villa a force under Unai Emery: work ethic, tactical intelligence and leadership.

The Scotsman’s relentless pressing, ball-carrying ability and knack for scoring crucial (and spectacular) goals make him indispensable. There’s a reason Villa fans sing about him being “better than Zidane”.

Bournemouth David Brooks

David Brooks’ comeback has been nothing short of remarkable. After being sidelined for 18 months due to a Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, the Welsh winger fought his way back to full fitness and re-established himself as a key figure for Bournemouth.

With a wicked left foot and exquisite technique, Brooks has once again become a creative force for the Cherries. His goal against Everton in December was a testament to his quality – a moment of sheer brilliance that reminded everyone of his talent.

Brentford Yoane Wissa

Bryan Mbeumo has, understandably, been getting most of the plaudits for Brentford this season thanks to his 14 goals in all competitions.

However, Yoane Wissa, who has just two goals fewer than his strike partner, gets nowhere near the same amount of recognition.

The DR Congo international may not be as flashy as Mbeumo, nor possess the dancing feet of the Cameroonian, but he’s a superb finisher, has bags of pace and boasts clever movement, making him a real handful for even the best of defenders.

Brighton & Hove Albion Danny Welbeck

While he may no longer be Brighton’s first-choice striker, 34-year-old Danny Welbeck brings a calmness and intelligence to the Seagulls’ attack when called upon – qualities that are sometimes missing when Joao Pedro leads the line.

Though never the most prolific goalscorer, the experienced Englishman excels at holding up the ball and seamlessly linking up play. His movement, vision and ability to bring teammates into the game make him a valuable asset, particularly in matches where Brighton need control and composure in the final third.

Chelsea Malo Gusto

Malo Gusto is an excellent footballer. Enzo Maresca’s decision early in the season to deploy him as an inverted full-back – a role reserved for only the most technically gifted defenders – speaks volumes about the Chelsea star’s ability.

However, it’s as a traditional wing-back where the Frenchman truly excels, marauding up and down the right flank, causing havoc for opposition defenders and creating plenty of chances for his teammates.

Since Reece James’ return to fitness, Maresca has seemingly sidelined Gusto, but with the Englishman looking off the pace and lacking the attacking threat he once had before injuries took their toll, don’t expect that to last too long.

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Chelsea have fallen off the pace in recent weeks, but a promising season could lead to greater things if they get their summer business right.

ByBarney Lane Feb 4, 2025 Crystal Palace Chris Richards

Tall, strong, and athletic, Chris Richards possesses all the physical attributes you’d want in a central defender.

More importantly, he knows how to put those qualities to good use. Just ask Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, whom he completely nullified during Crystal Palace’s 2-0 victory over the Red Devils in early February.

With Trevoh Chalobah now back at Chelsea, Richards is set to become an increasingly vital figure for the Eagles for the remainder of the season.

Everton James Tarkowski

Despite their struggles going forward under Sean Dyche, Everton boast one of the most watertight defences in the Premier League – and much of that is down to James Tarkowski.

A somewhat old-fashioned defender and a natural leader, the Englishman thrives in physical battles, dominates aerial duels and marshals the backline with authority.

While the headlines may suggest that young Jarrad Branthwaite is the backbone of the Toffees’ defence, in reality, it’s club captain Tarkowski who holds everything together.

Fulham Alex Iwobi

Once a promising youngster at Arsenal and later a £35m flop at Everton, Alex Iwobi has finally found his home at Fulham. Under Marco Silva, he has gone from strength to strength at Craven Cottage, thriving in a new role as a dynamic and creative midfielder.

Blessed with excellent technical ability, the Nigerian is excelling in the pocket behind the strikers – dribbling past opposition players, creating chances for fun, and even chipping in with goals himself.

Ipswich Town Leif Davis

When you mention Ipswich Town, the conversation inevitably turns to Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson, who have been the headline grabbers in the Tractor Boys’ first season back in the Premier League for two decades.

Defender Leif Davis, however, rarely gets a mention, but he should. Offering both defensive solidity and an attacking threat from left-back, his exceptional crossing ability and tireless work rate make him a key player in Kieran McKenna’s side.

Atletico Madrid will attempt to challenge Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd to the signing of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.

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Gyokeres wanted by top clubsAtletico eager to snap him upSporting demand at least €80mFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Gyokeres is one of the most in-demand strikers in Europe thanks to his incredible goal record for Sporting, attracting interest from the Premier League trio. However, reports that Atletico are considering entering the race as they look to strengthen Diego Simeone's squad.

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The 26-year-old, who has scored 48 goals in 47 games for Sporting this season, is expected to cost upwards of €80 million (£68m/$91m) and Atleti are 'dreaming' of bringing him to La Liga. The Spanish side are looking to invest in other areas of the squad, with Tottenham's Cristian Romero on their list of possible signings. Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic and Thomas Partey of Arsenal are also on their radar, although Villarreal's Alex Baena is their top target in that area.

DID YOU KNOW?

Atletico could see star forward Antoine Griezmann leave at the end of the season, so they will hope to partner Gyokeres with ex-City attacker Julian Alvarez up front.

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AFPWHAT NEXT FOR GYOKERES?

The Sweden international is aiming to finish the season with another Primeira Liga title under his belt before he confirms his next move in the summer.

Matheus Cunha's team-mate Matt Doherty took a cheeky dig at Manchester United as he claimed that Wolves star will play in the Champions League soon.

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Doherty took a dig at Man UtdHailed Cunha and claimed he will play in Europe soonMan Utd face Athletic Club this Thursday Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?

United have been linked with a summer move for Wolves' Cunha. The centre-forward has scored 15 goals in 29 Premier League games this season, and he has a release clause worth £62.5 million ($84m) in his contract, which the Red Devils are ready to trigger. Amid speculation over the Brazilian's future, his Wolves team-mate Matt Doherty has heaped praise on the striker as the former Spurs player claimed that Cunha will play in the Champions League soon.

AdvertisementWHAT MATT DOHERTY SAID

Speaking on , Doherty said: "Sometimes it takes you to move away from a place to find yourself, to realise what you need to do, maybe to get back to a place. Because he should be playing week in, week out for Atletico. That’s not the case but I’m pretty sure he’s going to be playing at the highest level imaginable – Champions League, stuff like that – pretty soon. Huge, huge potential."

Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE

The Red Devils are far from qualifying for any tier of European football next season through their league position, as they are currently placed 14th on the Premier League points table. The only way they can qualify for the Champions League next year is if they win the Europa League. They have reached the semi-final of the competition, where they are set to lock horns against Athletic Club in a two-legged tie.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?

Ruben Amorim's side will jet off to Spain to face Athletic Club in the first leg of their Europa League last-four clash at San Mames Stadium.